Les Saisies at a Glance
- Location: in Savoie, on the Col des Saisies, between the Beaufortain and the Val d’Arly.
- Elevation: 1,650 m for the station.
- Best for: Family vacations, cross-country skiing, Alpine views, hikes, and well-planned car-free getaways.
- Seasons: Winter for snow and winter sports; summer for alpine pastures, mountain biking, and hiking.
- Booking Tips: Plan ahead for lodging, classes, equipment rentals, and supervised activities during school breaks.
Les Saisies: Why Choose This Resort in the Beaufortain Region?
Les Saisies is a village resort focused on outdoor activities. Here, the experience isn’t limited to the slopes: the landscape of alpine meadows, forests, and ridges invites you to go for a walk, take a break on a terrace, or follow the roads and trails that lead to the Beaufortain.
Where is Les Saisies located?
Les Saisies is located in Savoie, at the junction of the Beaufortain and Val d’Arly regions. The resort extends primarily across the municipalities of Hauteluce and Villard-sur-Doron. Its tourist offerings are centered around Les Saisies, Hauteluce, and Bisanne 1500, the latter being an area located in the municipality of Villard-sur-Doron. Albertville is a convenient destination for travelers arriving by train or bus.
A resort nestled between the alpine pastures and Mont Blanc
Les Saisies’s greatest asset is its open view of the mountain ranges. From the higher elevations, the view takes in the Mont Blanc massif, the Aravis, and the Beaufortain mountains. In the summer, the high-altitude meadows and grazing herds serve as a reminder that this region is also an agricultural area, particularly known for the production of Beaufort cheese.
The resort also provides access to the Tourbière des Saisies–Beaufortain–Val d’Arly Regional Nature Reserve. This vast wetland area—which is fragile and home to many specialized species—deserves a quiet and respectful visit: stay on the designated trails and follow local guidelines during your visit.
Who is this for?
- Families: for learning spaces, easy hikes, sledding, and age-appropriate summer activities.
- All-around skiers: to combine downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and panoramic views.
- Non-skiers: for snowshoeing, walks in the snow, mountain-top terraces, and exploring the local area.
- Walkers and trail runners: for alpine pasture trails, scenic loops, and day hikes.
- Mountain Bikers: for bike parks, electric mountain biking, enduro, or more leisurely rides.
What is there to do in Les Saisies in the winter?
In winter, Les Saisies offers a variety of activities without requiring you to spend the entire day on downhill skis. The best plan will depend on your skill level, snow conditions, and what you’re in the mood for that day: a morning of skiing can easily be followed by a walk in the woods or a cross-country ski outing.
Skiing in the Espace Diamant
Les Saisies is connected to the’Diamond Area, a ski area that connects the resorts of Les Saisies and Hauteluce to Notre-Dame-de-Bellecombe, Crest-Voland/Cohennoz, Praz-sur-Arly, and Flumet. It offers 192 km of groomed and safe trails, with a variety of landscapes ranging from forests to alpine meadows and villages. This layout is ideal for groups with varying skill levels: everyone can ski at their own pace while still easily meeting up for lunch or to wrap up the day.
On your first day, stick to areas near the resort, locate the beginner zones, and check the trail map that morning. Trail openings may change depending on the weather, wind, and snow conditions.
Discover Nordic Skiing
Nordic skiing is one of Les Saisies’ hallmarks. The resort features 120 km of cross-country trails, with routes suited to various styles and skill levels, as well as a biathlon stadium. It’s an excellent way to experience the mountains differently: quieter, more gradual, and deeply immersive in the snow-covered landscapes.
- Beginners: Start with a short session, ideally in a class or on an easy loop.
- Athletes: Plan on spending half a day or more, and be sure to bring a drink, a snack, and breathable clothing.
- Families: Alternate between a Nordic skiing introduction and a fun activity to prevent the youngest children from getting tired.
Go on a snowshoe hike
Snowshoeing is the simplest answer to the question, «What can you do in Les Saisies besides skiing?» In winter, the resort offers about 20 km of walking trails and 65 km of snowshoe trails. A guided tour helps you better interpret the landscape, spot animal tracks, and understand winter safety rules.
Do not set out on an unsecured trail without the proper skills: some trails are neither groomed daily nor protected from natural hazards. Check trail conditions, the weather, and avalanche risk before putting on your snowshoes.
Les Saisies Without Skiing
Yes, it’s entirely possible to enjoy a vacation in Les Saisies without downhill skiing. The key is to plan an itinerary that balances gentle activities, scenic views, and downtime.
- Walk on groomed trails when conditions permit.
- Book a snowshoeing or dog-sledding excursion with a provider that is open during your stay.
- Try cross-country skiing during a short introductory session.
- Get a bird's-eye view by using the ski lifts that are accessible to pedestrians when they are in operation.
- Enjoy the shops, restaurants, and the resort atmosphere.
- Plan a trip to the Beaufortain if you have a car or an accessible shuttle.
Sledding and Activities with Kids
For children, simple moments are often the best: sledding in designated areas, building a snowman, enjoying a hot chocolate break, and taking a short walk in the woods. Les Saisies has areas designated for sledding, subject to operating conditions. Avoid the edges of ski runs and check on-site to see which areas are actually open and safe.
| Winter Activity |
Recommended audience |
Estimated time |
Good reflex |
| Downhill skiing |
Beginners to advanced |
Half-day to full-day |
Reserve classes and materials during busy periods. |
| Cross-country skiing |
Working adults, families with older children |
1 to 3 hours |
Start with a loop that's appropriate for your skill level. |
| Snowshoeing |
Non-skiers, families, couples |
1 hour 30 minutes to a half-day |
Review the guidelines and stay on the recommended trails. |
| Sled |
Young children |
30 minutes to 1 hour |
Use only the designated areas. |
What is there to do in Les Saisies in the summer?
In the summer, Les Saisies takes on a different pace without losing its mountain character. The ski slopes give way to hiking trails, bike paths, and flower-filled meadows. It’s a particularly pleasant destination for travelers who want to breathe in the mountain air, go for a walk without aiming for a challenging peak, or enjoy a variety of activities over several days.
Easy or Challenging Hikes
Hiking in Les Saisies is perfect for everything from a first family outing to a more challenging day-long hike. Among the routes offered by the resort, the Bisanne loop via the Croix de Coste is a 6.4-km loop that takes about three hours, winding through alpine meadows, forests, chalets, and offering views of Mont Blanc. The Arpelières Trail, meanwhile, offers a glimpse into the world of peat bogs along a themed route of about 4.2 km.
When choosing your route, focus less on distance alone and more on elevation gain, estimated duration, exposure, and weather conditions. In the mountains, even a family-friendly loop can become challenging due to heat, thunderstorms, or a tired child.
Mountain Biking, Cycling, and Outdoor Activities
Les Saisies has a bike park and mountain bike trails for various skill levels: downhill, enduro, cross-country, recreational routes, and electric-assist mountain biking. The bike park features 17 downhill trails accessible via three chairlifts during operating hours. Helmets are mandatory, protective gear is recommended, and carefully scouting the trails is essential, especially for your first run.
If you're traveling with children or just starting out, opt for a guided introductory session, a pump track, or an e-bike route rather than a challenging downhill ride. Experienced riders will find more to their liking on enduro circuits and bike park trails.
Gain some perspective
In the summer, some ski lifts provide access to hiking trails and scenic overlooks. The Bisanne chairlift, for example, takes you to the base of Mont Bisanne, whose summit rises to 1,941 meters. Which lifts are open, their operating periods, and their schedules vary by season: check the resort’s information before planning your day.
The Balcon sur le Mont-Blanc, accessible from the resort depending on conditions, is a great destination for those seeking an unobstructed view of Mont Blanc, the Aravis, and the Beaufortain without having to plan a long hike.
Explore the alpine pastures and the peat bog
Alpine pastures are not just a scenic backdrop. They are agricultural workspaces and living environments: close gates, keep dogs on a leash in accordance with local regulations, do not disturb the herds, and keep your distance from wildlife. In the Tourbière des Saisies Nature Reserve, the wetlands are home to rare biodiversity; the boardwalks and marked trails allow you to explore them without damaging them.
What is there to see in Les Saisies and the surrounding area?
What is there to see in Les Saisies? First and foremost, the scenery: a high-altitude plateau, ridgelines, forests, and Mont Blanc, which comes into view in the distance when the sky is clear. The resort itself is best explored on foot, but the villages of the Beaufortain region add another dimension to your stay.
Must-See Viewpoints
- The Col des Saisies: A good starting point for experiencing the open landscape of the plateau and accessing several hiking trails.
- Mount Bisanne: A great spot for high-altitude panoramic views, accessible mainly by ski lift in the summer, depending on the resort's operating schedule.
- The Balcons du Mont-Blanc: a scenic overlook facing the major mountain ranges.
- Mountain ridges and alpine pastures: Discover these spots along the hiking trails, where visibility is often better in the morning.
The village and its atmosphere
The village of Les Saisies is, above all, a lively resort, centered around its shops, services, activity departure points, and tourist facilities. Take the time to stroll through the village in the late afternoon, especially after a hike or a day of skiing: it’s the perfect time to do some shopping for the next day, rent equipment, or get the latest helpful tips from the tourist office.
Explore the Beaufortain
Les Saisies is a great gateway to the Beaufortain region, a land of mountains, dams, villages, and alpine pastures. If you have several days, don’t try to see everything: choose a valley or a village, and take the time to go for a walk, visit a dairy cooperative, or enjoy a gourmet stop featuring Beaufort cheese.
To plan a more in-depth getaway, check out our guide to Discover Arêches-Beaufort in the Beaufortain region. According to CPARICI data, this resort village is located about 8.6 km from Les Saisies as the crow flies, but the driving distance and travel time should be verified based on your specific route.
Toward Arêches-Beaufort and the neighboring villages
Arêches-Beaufort, Beaufort, Hauteluce, Villard-sur-Doron, and Queige are all great options for day trips around Les Saisies. They generally require a car or the use of seasonal transportation. In both summer and winter, shuttle services connect Les Saisies, Hauteluce, Bisanne 1500, Beaufort, and Albertville according to specific schedules. Check the Bus and Shuttle Schedules for Les Saisies before planning a car-free outing.
Les Saisies: With Family, as a Couple, or With Friends
With young children
A great family vacation focuses on a relaxed pace rather than cramming in too many activities. In winter, plan a short session of skiing or sledding, followed by a break. In the summer, choose a themed trail, a hike through the alpine pastures, a route accessible by all-terrain stroller (if confirmed locally), or a supervised activity appropriate for the child’s age.
With teenagers
Teens often enjoy more active pursuits: mountain biking, introductory biathlon, sledding on rails, adventure courses, cross-country skiing, or hiking with scenic views. The exact offerings vary by season: check the sports and recreational activities available during your stay before promising an activity to your family.
What can you do in Les Saisies when it rains?
If it rains, adjust the itinerary rather than insisting on a hike at high altitude. The Le Signal Aquatic Center Depending on the operating schedule, the resort offers a water park, wellness areas, and indoor sports facilities. You can also plan a gourmet break, explore the resort’s shops, or check with the tourist office for information on events, workshops, and activities taking place during your stay.
A Getaway for Two
For a weekend getaway as a couple, make the most of the times when the resort is less crowded: a morning stroll, lunch with a view of the peaks, a sunset walk—sticking to the posted hours and authorized trails—followed by a quiet evening in the village. Les Saisies is particularly well-suited for travelers seeking a mountain setting without the hustle and bustle of the very large resorts.
For athletes
Create a customized itinerary: downhill and cross-country skiing in the winter; hiking, trail running, mountain biking, or cycling in the summer. Les Saisies also offers a marked trail for beginners to ski touring, called La Leash, which may only be used under the conditions and during the hours specified by the resort.
Itineraries for Visiting Les Saisies
A Day in Winter
- Morning: Downhill skiing in the Les Saisies area or an introduction to cross-country skiing.
- Noon: Lunch at the resort and a break in a warm place.
- Afternoon: A walking tour or snowshoe hike on a designated trail.
- End of the day: Sledding with the kids or strolling through the village.
Weekend in Les Saisies
- Day 1 : Exploring the resort, the main seasonal activity, and the panoramic view from the hills.
- Day 2 : A leisurely morning outing—snowshoeing in winter, the Arpelières Trail, or a loop around Bisanne via the Croix de Coste in summer—followed by a stop in a village in the Beaufortain region, traffic conditions permitting.
A week in winter or summer
Over the course of a week, alternate activities rather than doing intensive days back-to-back. In winter: two or three days of downhill skiing, one day of cross-country skiing, one snowshoeing outing, and one free day, depending on the weather. In summer: two hikes of varying difficulty levels, one day of mountain biking or cycling, one day in the Beaufortain, and more flexible schedules for family activities.
Where to stay in Les Saisies?
The CPARICI listings currently available near Les Saisies are mainly located in Arêches-Beaufort and, further away, toward Aix-les-Bains. They may be suitable depending on your itinerary, but should not be considered accommodations within the resort of Les Saisies itself.
Apartment at the foot of the chairlift 6 Pers - Arêches-Beaufort
Located in the center of Arêches-Beaufort, this two-bedroom apartment with a large terrace is situated at the base of the chairlift. It is designed for 4 people and can accommodate up to 6 guests. This is a great option if you’d like to split your stay between Les Saisies and the other side of the Beaufortain. Discover this accommodation on CPARICI.
Superb air-conditioned apartment facing the Casino d'Aix-les-Bains
In Aix-les-Bains, about 48.2 km from Les Saisies according to CPARICI data, this air-conditioned four-room apartment with a large terrace faces the casino and can accommodate up to 6 guests. It’s better suited for a trip that combines mountain activities with exploring Lake Bourget than for a vacation focused solely on Les Saisies. Discover this accommodation on CPARICI.
Chalet du Bonheur with heated pool, jacuzzi and sauna - Aix-les-Bains
Located in Viviers-du-Lac, near Aix-les-Bains and about 49.7 km from Les Saisies according to CPARICI data, this air-conditioned chalet accommodates up to 6 adults. With its heated pool, hot tub, and sauna, it’s perfect for a Savoyard getaway combining lake life, wellness, and occasional mountain excursions. Discover this accommodation on CPARICI.
To narrow down your search based on duration, budget, and type of accommodation, check out our tips for Find a vacation rental in Savoie.
Planning Your Trip to Les Saisies
How to get here and get around?
The Albertville bus station is a convenient way to reach the area. Once there, buses and seasonal shuttles can take you to the resort, Hauteluce, Bisanne 1500, certain villages, and hiking trailheads. Parking is regulated in certain areas of Les Saisies in both winter and summer: plan ahead and check local information before setting out.
When is the best time to visit Les Saisies?
- From December through April, approximately: for downhill skiing and snow activities, subject to snow conditions; the cross-country ski area may open earlier in certain sections when conditions permit.
- From June through September, approximately: for hiking, mountain biking, and alpine pastures, depending on the ski lift schedules and trail conditions.
- Off-season: for its tranquility and scenery, with fewer tourist attractions and more unpredictable weather.
The opening dates for the alpine ski area, the cross-country ski area, the bike park, and the summer lifts are revised each year. Be sure to check them when you make your reservation, especially if your stay is at the beginning or end of the season.
Practical Checklist
- Shoes suitable for walking or for snow.
- Warm, breathable clothing in the winter; fleece and a waterproof jacket year-round.
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a water bottle—even at moderate altitudes.
- Hiking map or app, power bank, and snacks.
- Helmets and protective gear for mountain biking.
- Advance reservations are required for classes, rentals, and supervised activities.
Check before departure
Before heading to Les Saisies, be sure to check the following:
- weather conditions at high altitudes and the risk of thunderstorms; ;
- snow conditions and slope openings; ;
- ski lifts accessible to pedestrians or mountain bikers; ;
- shuttle bus schedules; ;
- trail conditions, especially after heavy rain or at the start of the season; ;
- the schedules for indoor activities, especially in case of rain; ;
- the rules that apply in protected natural areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Les Saisies
What to Do in Les Saisies?
In Les Saisies, you can go downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding in the winter; and hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the alpine pastures in the summer. All year round, the resort also offers the chance to admire the panoramic views of Mont Blanc and explore the Beaufortain region.
What's there to see in Les Saisies?
The main attractions include the views of Mont Blanc, the Aravis, and the Beaufortain; the Col des Saisies; the alpine pastures; and the protected peat bog. For a day trip, the villages of Hauteluce, Beaufort, or Arêches-Beaufort are great additions to your stay.
Is Les Saisies a good place for families?
Yes, Les Saisies is family-friendly thanks to its wide variety of leisure and sports activities. Beginner skiing, sledding, walks, summer hikes, and mountain biking allow you to tailor your itinerary to the children’s ages and the weather.
What can you do in Les Saisies without skiing?
Even if you don’t ski, you can go snowshoeing, hike along the open trails, try cross-country skiing, enjoy the panoramic views, or set out to explore the Beaufortain region. Some guided activities and certain equipment options depend on the season: check what’s available for your dates.
What can you do in Les Saisies when it rains?
When it’s raining, opt for indoor activities, such as the Le Signal water sports center when it’s open, as well as the shops, restaurants, and entertainment options available in the resort. Ask for the most up-to-date schedule at the tourist office before heading out.
When is the best time to visit Les Saisies?
The best time to visit depends on your plans. Winter is great for snow sports; summer is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the alpine scenery. Weather conditions and opening dates vary from year to year.
Can you visit Les Saisies in the summer?
Yes, Les Saisies is a great place to visit in the summer. Hiking, cable car rides to scenic viewpoints, the bike park, mountain bike trails, and exploring the peat bog offer a full range of mountain activities.
Is it possible to visit Les Saisies without a car?
Yes, but you’ll need to plan your trip in advance from Albertville and check the bus or shuttle schedules for your travel season. Once you’re there, the shuttles can make some trips easier, though they don’t necessarily serve all the trailheads.
Conclusion
Les Saisies is a mountain destination worth considering if you’re looking for both activities and scenic beauty. What to do in Les Saisies depends on the season and your preferences: downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and non-skiing activities in winter; hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the Beaufortain alpine pastures in summer. To ensure your trip is a success, be sure to tailor your itinerary to your skill level, the weather, and the season, and check the resort’s latest information before making any reservations. The accommodations available on CPARICI can also help you plan an extended stay in the Beaufortain region or elsewhere in Savoie.
Suggestions for Original Media
- Main photo: A panoramic view of the mountain pastures of Les Saisies, with Mont Blanc in the background. Alternative text: «Panoramic view of the Saisies mountain pastures and the Mont Blanc massif.».
- Winter photo: downhill or cross-country skiers on the snow-covered plateau. Alternative text: «Nordic skiing in Les Saisies on the snow-covered Beaufortain plateau.».
- Summer photo: hikers on an alpine trail. Alternative text: «Summer hike in Les Saisies among alpine pastures and panoramic views.».
- Nature photo: boardwalk or bog landscape. Alternative text: «Les Saisies Peat Bog in the Beaufortain Regional Nature Reserve.».
- Mood photo: The resort center at the end of the day, with mountain-style facades and strollers. Alternative text: «A small-town atmosphere in the resort town of Les Saisies in Savoie.».
